Learn how to safely remove pets from traps with these video tutorials from the Alaksa Department of Fish and Game.
It is extremely rare for pets to be caught in traps during Vermont’s regulated trapping seasons, but if you recreate in places where traps are commonly set such as off trail, in small streams or along the edges of waterbodies, or on Wildlife Management Areas, this is a helpful skillset to have.
Foothold Traps
Foothold traps are designed to restrain an animal without harming them. Trappers commonly set foothold traps on land in areas where wildlife are known to travel. Pets caught in foothold traps can be easily released without harm.
Body-gripping Traps
Body gripping are designed to kill an animal quickly. It is less likely for pets to be caught in body gripping traps set in the water for beaver, or on a branch above the ground for fisher or bobcat. In the unlikely event that your pet is caught in a body gripping trap you will need to act very quickly to release them.